Laser-induced extreme magnetic field in nanorod targets. (26th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lécz, Zsolt; Andreev, Alexander
• Is Part Of: New journal of physics. Volume 20:Number 3(2018:Mar.)
• Publication Date: 2018-03-26
• Subjects: high current -- strong magnetic fields -- laser-matter interaction -- numerical simulations; Physics -- Periodicals; Physics; Periodicals; 530.05
• DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630/aaaff2
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1367-2630

Abstract

Abstract: The application of nano-structured target surfaces in laser-solid interaction has attracted significant attention in the last few years. Their ability to absorb significantly more laser energy promises a possible route for advancing the currently established laser ion acceleration concepts. However, it is crucial to have a better understanding of field evolution and electron dynamics during laser-matter interactions before the employment of such exotic targets. This paper focuses on the magnetic field generation in nano-forest targets consisting of parallel nanorods grown on plane surfaces. A general scaling law for the self-generated quasi-static magnetic field amplitude is given and it is shown that amplitudes up to 1 MT field are achievable with current technology. Analytical results are supported by three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations. Non-parallel arrangements of nanorods has also been considered which result in the generation of donut-shaped azimuthal magnetic fields in a larger volume.